Hope.
Encouragement.
Frustration.
Inspiration.
Determination.
Faith.
Breaking stereotypes.
True love.
Change in perspective.
What do all these things have in common you ask? It might look like the criteria for a big time movie, or maybe the perfect recipe for a best selling book. But it is actually all part of the package when it comes to raising a special needs child.
In the blog, "Our Journey Through Life", Melanie, the blogger, took me on a roller coaster of a ride in raising her Down syndrome baby boy named Eli. Her major target audience is other families who are going through similar issues. All these families are in what Melanie calls an "exclusive club". She is really trying to bring hope and encouragement for those who do not see the light at the end of the tunnel. Yes, she too had her dark days at the beginning of the journey, but pushing forward with a positive attitude has seen Eli overcoming obstacles no one ever thought possible. She uses beautiful pictures of her family doing everyday things to portray the new perspective on life she has: appreciating the little things.
She did not only use the support from her family and friends to help her with this unique journey, but relied on an even greater strength; God. From the very beginning of her blog she writes about this faith she has in Him. The quote I love is, "We were chosen by God to be this child’s parents. He knows we are capable of loving this child unconditionally. He picked us for him and him for us." (Melanie,Acceptance)
Throughout her blog she is ultimately saying that even though you have to go through the pain and hardship, overcoming these adversities is what makes this journey for her so rewarding. You start to gain a new perspective on life in enjoying the simple things life has to offer, and this is why Melanie considers herself one "lucky" mother.She has learned to stop and take in all small blessings that God has given her and take the challenges head on. She is proud of what her son has accomplished and knows there is a long but rewarding road ahead of them.
You can follow Melanie's blog at http://mellbugg.wordpress.com
